Nuclear equations

Nuclear equations

An alpha particle can be denoted as \(^4_2\text{He}\).
- Alpha decay will cause the atomic number of a nucleus to decrease by 2 and its mass number to decrease by 4. For example, \(^{235}_{92}\text{U}\longrightarrow ^{231}_{90}\text{Th} +^4_2\text{He}\)
A beta particle can be denoted as \(^0_{-1}e\).
- Beta decay will cause the atomic number of a nucleus to increase by 1 while keeping its mass number the same. For example, \(^{99}_{43}\text{Tc}\longrightarrow ^{99}_{44}\text{Ru}+^0_{-1}e\).
Gamma rays are emitted after alpha or beta decays to carry away excess energy the nucleus has. This does not affect the mass or atomic number of the nucleus.

Sign up to unlock the rest of this topic — plus every other topic, video, flashcard set and eBook guide in your SnapRevise+ subscription.

Cancel anytime — instant access the moment you sign up.